
Mineral
Green Aventurine
Silicon Dioxide (SiO2) with inclusions of Fuchsite
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Muted green with shimmering specks; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.65
- Hardness
- 7 Mohs
- Color
- Muted green with shimmering specks
- Luster
- Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence
Identified More mineral →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 7 Mohs; Color: Muted green with shimmering specks; Luster: Vitreous to waxy with aventurescence; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal (microcrystalline); Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific Gravity: 2.63 - 2.65
Formation & geological history
Formed in metamorphic environments where silica-rich fluids permeate through rocks containing mica or other platy minerals. The green color is derived from inclusions of chromium-bearing mica (fuchsite). Most deposits range from 10 million to 1.5 billion years old depending on the source.
Uses & applications
Predominantly used for ornamental purposes, lapidary work (producing beads, cabochons, and carvings), and in the metaphysical/gemstone market as a 'stone of prosperity'.
Geological facts
The name comes from the Italian 'a ventura', meaning 'by chance', originally referring to accidental discoveries of aventurine glass. The shimmering effect is known as 'aventurescence', caused by light reflecting off tiny mineral platelets inside the stone.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its waxy luster and the presence of 'spangles' or tiny internal sparkles when rotated under a light source. Commonly found in India, Brazil, and Russia. Collectors should look for even color saturation and a high density of mica inclusions.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)
Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)
Metamorphic Rock
Green Apatite on Albite
Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]
mineral
Epidote
Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)
mineral